Memphis Political Reformer Dies After Long Illness

Memphis attorney Hunter Lane Jr., a pivotal figure in the city’s political history, died Sunday after a lengthy illness. He was 82. Mr. Lane was elected Commissioner of Public Service in 1963 and was one of the leaders of a reform movement that led to a charter commission and the establishment in 1967 of the current mayor-council form of government, the Memphis Flyer reports. He also later served on the Memphis School Board. A memorial service will be held on Thursday at Idlewild Presbyterian Church in Memphis at noon with visitation beginning at 10 a.m.